3 Buccaneers returning in 2021 with cheaper contracts

Shaquil Barrett

Shaquil Barrett made himself a lot of money last season. The same can’t be said for this year, but he still has a contract coming his way. Barrett should come out with a consistent contract just shy of the franchise tag, which is more than fair for what he has produced as a starter.

In 2019, Barrett was one of the best pass rushers in the league. Despite leading the NFL in sacks, the personal accolades didn’t come at the level he deserved, but Barrett was still offered the franchise tag by the Buccaneers to prove it for one more season.

After exploding onto the scene in 2019, offenses have started to give Barrett far more attention, and his numbers are down this year. Everyone knows why the numbers are down, and having Barrett take up blocks has led to other players finding success.

The Buccaneers need to bring Barrett back, but they need to do so in a safe manner. Barrett has earned a long-term contract, but he needs to use reason at the negotiating table.

Barrett was the second-highest paid player on the Buccaneers this season at just shy of sixteen million dollars, and the odds are decent that he will enter a long term deal making between ten and thirteen million after this year to return to Tampa Bay.

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